Welcome to our September update!    


I always have mixed emotions about September. On one hand, I'm sad to see summer come to an end. On the other hand, the beginning of the school year is always full of hope and excitement. Plus, I love the fall weather and being outdoors with apples and pumpkins and mums. 

 

If you are looking for an outdoor activity this fall, check out our Walking in Massachusetts column, which features Winnekenni Castle in Haverhill. For all of you folks with school-aged children, please read our Ask the Nutritionist column where Sandy Sarni answers a question on appropriate nutrient levels for children. We are also announcing the new Webinar Buffet and Smorgasbord activities for the year! They run from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023 - anyone can participate in these programs and MIIA/BCBS subscribers can earn prizes.

 

Lastly, MIIA has partnered with Brightline - which brings our members extraordinary behavioral health care for kids and teens, and support for parents and caregivers. Check out the Brightline piece below.


— Courtney Hernandez, Wellness Manager


The Well Aware Self-Directed Activity Challenges

Now there are TWO ways to earn gift cards while staying fit and well! Find our Wellbeing Smorgasbord and Webinar Buffet in each Monthly Newsletter like Wellness Wheel: From Striving to Thriving and Boost Your Immunity with Food. We offer a variety of exercise, diet and wellbeing activities in self-directed and webinar formats. Each program includes educational information, tips and strategies. Only MIIA/Blue Cross subscribers are eligible for $125 worth of gift cards.

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Program of the Month

Wellness Wheel: From Striving to Thriving

3-week Self-Directed Challenge Starting Sept. 12

Do you feel off balance and unsatisfied in your life? Are you doing the same things every day and not feeling satisfied? Are you ready to take action in making your life more fulfilling?

Take charge of your life by participating in this self-evaluation challenge to discover what areas in your life you could work on to move from striving to thriving in your personal wellbeing. Earn cool prizes as well.

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Webinar of the Month

Boost Your Immunity with Food

A strong immune system is always important but even more critical given the prevalence of the coronavirus. As we return to being with groups of people, our immune system will have to work harder to keep us well. Join registered dietitian, Tricia Silverman, to learn about the wide variety of foods that can strengthen your immune system and keep you healthy this fall.

Available September 1 through 30, 2022.

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Brightline Behavioral Health Support

We’re so excited to introduce a new MIIA partner - Brightline. Brightline brings you extraordinary behavioral health care for kids and teens, and support for parents and caregivers. Even better? It’s all delivered virtually, so you can get support when and where they need it. 

Brightline is available for MIIA/Blue Cross subscribers with dependents age 18 months - 17 years.

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988 Is the New 3-digit, Number for the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Veterans can press “1” after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

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Walking in Massachusetts

Winnekenni Castle/Kenoza Lake

Every month we will feature a different walk highlighting the beautiful nature paths throughout Massachusetts. We will make some trail recommendations and suggestions on proper foot attire. We hope you enjoy these walks by yourself or with family, friends, or furry friends. This month check out Winnekenni Castle/Kenoza Lake in Haverhill.

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How to Reduce Stigma Through Safe Language

Mindwise

To increase our understanding of behavioral health, we need to become more comfortable

talking about mental health and substance use in our daily lives. A shared understanding of

how to talk about mental health contribute to a psychologically safe team environment and

is central to having productive discussions that don’t reinforce unfair or damaging

stereotypes. 

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Some Good Advice About Bad Advice


2Sisters Senior Living Advisors

Senior care touches so many of us in so many ways; it’s no wonder most people have some experience with it and a point of view. Unfortunately, that point of view can do more harm than good. Find out where to turn to get the advice you need to start planning and making these important decisions.

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Ask the Nutritionist

Is my school age child getting proper nutrition to support her growth?

Do you have questions about what to eat or anything related to nutrition and food? Our new "Ask the Nutritionist" column will answer these for you. Sandy Sarni, MS, RD, MIIA's Integrative Nutritionist, will answer a question each month to help you make healthy choices for you and your family. Please submit your questions to: [email protected]



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Grilled Stone Fruit with Yogurt & Granola


JoyfulHealthyEats.com

Late summer fruits are perfect on the grill - it really brings out the sweetness. Try this recipe as a fun breakfast or dessert.

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